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Wednesday, December 28, 2016

New indigenous member appointed to AHS Board

Government of Alberta - Heather Hirsch, an Indigenous woman and 19-year-veteran in frontline health care, has been appointed to the Alberta Health Services Board.

“The AHS Board has been hard at work for the last year making sure our health system is meeting the growing and changing needs of Alberta families. Hirsch’s appointment means we have another competent, passionate member who will bring her perspectives as an Indigenous woman and frontline health worker to the table.” - Sarah Hoffman, Minister of Health

Last fall, when the new AHS Board was appointed, the government made a commitment to reach out to Indigenous communities to ensure the board is representative of Alberta’s diversity. Hirsch was appointed after a rigorous recruitment process.

“Heather is a terrific addition to our board and I look forward to the perspectives, skills and personal and professional experiences she’ll bring to our discussions. AHS serves all Albertans, and our board strives to reflect and hear from our province’s unique communities and diverse voices. Heather brings an important voice to our table and will help make our health system better and more inclusive.” - Linda Hughes, Alberta Health Services Board Chair

Hirsch holds an Advanced Studies in Critical Care Nursing Level 1 certificate from Mount Royal University in Calgary and obtained her Registered Nurse diploma from Grant MacEwan College in Edmonton.

She has consulted on various Indigenous programs, including the Calgary Health Region Indigenous Health Program Southern Alberta Child and Youth Network Community. She also consulted on the curriculum regarding development and delivery of the Indigenous Nursing Program at Bow Valley College.

“I am very humbled and passionate about the Alberta Health Services Board work that lies ahead. I look forward to adding to the collective wisdom of the board. There is much to contribute and much to learn by bringing an Indigenous perspective. Statements about the health system made by Minister Sarah Hoffman such as "the right service, by the right professional as close to home as possible" and "patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable" are invitations I will put my head and heart to work on for all Albertans.” - Heather Hirsch, board member